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Small-Group Rotorua Naturally Shore Excursion - Tauranga

319 Reviews 4.62 out of 5 stars Based on 319 reviews collected by City Balloon Tours and TripAdvisor | Recommended by 92% of reviewers | Tauranga, New Zealand
Don't miss out!
On average, this is booked 18 (0) days in advance.

7 hours (approx.)
Mobile ticket
Offered in: English

Overview

Experience the unique and special natural beauty of Rotorua, the geothermal hot spot of New Zealand, just 1 hour's drive from Tauranga.

Learn about the geothermal features and its use by the Māori people, the first to settle in New Zealand over 800 years ago.

Entry is not included to the private geothermal reserves, but we do see boiling mud pools, crystal clear bubbling hot springs and volcanic lakes.

Relax at the foot bathing pools in Kuirau Park, (towels provided) after a short walk to see the bubbling mud and steaming lakes.

Whakarewarewa Village is our stop for a snack lunch, here you can take a peek at the village (entry not included.) before visiting the Redwoods Forrest where we take a short, guided tour through a purpose-built Glow Worm Grotto, then a walk among the treetops on a network of easy-to-use suspended pathways, with access by a gentle spiral ramp, no steps are needed.

The tour start time will be confirmed when your booking is accepted, to suit the ship times.

What's Included

  • Small-group transport in air-conditioned minivan/coach
  • Port pickup and drop-off (cruise-friendly timing)
  • Traditional Hangi-inspired snack (meat or vegetable pie)
  • Admission to commercial geothermal parks (not included)
  • Lunch, drinks, souvenirs, personal expenses
  • Infant/baby seats (must be supplied by traveler if required)
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Meeting Location

Meeting point

2 Salisbury Avenue
Mount Maunganui 3116, New Zealand

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Detailed check-in instructions, including the exact address, are provided with your booking confirmation.

End point

This activity ends back at the meeting point.

What To Expect

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Our secure website provides real-time availability, and free, no-hassle cancellations up to 24 hours before your tour begins.
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Kuirau Park

This area of Rotorua is literally a hot bed of geothermal activity, with steaming lakes and bubbling mud pools. A visit to the foot bathing area lets you enjoy the warm waters that naturally occur throughout the region. Take a walk through the park to see the steaming lakes and the location of the last eruption here on 2001.
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30 minutes Admission Ticket Free

Sulphur Point

We make a stop here on the edge of Lake Rotorua to see the effect the geothermal activity has on the lake, right in the heart of Rotorua. A popular spot for many of the native birds that also enjoy the warm waters created by the outflows from the nearby geysers and hot water springs.
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15 minutes Admission Ticket Free

Government Gardens

We make a stop in the Government Gardens, location of the Rotorua Bathhouse and Museum, the Blue Baths and the naturally occurring Rachel's Spring, source of the geothermal water for the Polynesian Spa. Chance for some great photos and to walk through the extensive flower displays.
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10 minutes Admission Ticket Free

Redwoods, Whakarewarewa Forest

Take a walk on suspended walkways high up in the amazing Redwood Forest in Rotorua, easily accessed by a spiral ramp. Look down onto the forest floor and get a great view of these majestic trees and the Tree Ferns below you. We include a short, guided tour through a Glow Worm Grotto, a purpose-built facility where you will see thousands of glow worms up close.
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1 hour Admission Ticket Included

Rotorua

We will show you the sights of Rotorua as we travel around the city visiting as many destinations as possible.
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45 minutes Admission Ticket Free

Tauranga

As we depart (or return) to the port of Tauranga you will travel through the city, one of New Zealand's fastest growing cities and home to the country's largest port.
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30 minutes Admission Ticket Free

Mount Maunganui

Departing the Port of Tauranga where you cruise ship is berthed, we will drive through one of New Zealand's most popular and most expensive beach side suburbs - Mount Maunganui, driving along the sea front of Marine Parade past multi-million-dollar homes.
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30 minutes Admission Ticket Free

Te Puke

We travel through the world capital of Kiwi Fruit, otherwise known as the town of TePuke and the Bay of Plenty region, which accounts for 85% of New Zealand's Kiwifruit production. Time permitting, we will visit a kiwifruit orchard where you will see the vines growing and be able to taste and buy kiwifruit products.
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15 minutes Admission Ticket Free

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Additional Info

  • Confirmation will be received within 48 hours of booking, subject to availability
  • Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
  • Tour departure time may change due to early and/or late ship arrivals and departures
  • Operates in all weather conditions, please dress appropriately. We suggest layers with hats and sunscreen
  • You must provide your own infant/baby seat if required.

Frequently Asked Questions (8)

Q: What is the cancellation policy for the Small-Group Rotorua Naturally Shore Excursion – Tauranga?

A: You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the tour for a full refund. For a full refund, you must cancel at least 24 hours before the tour start time.If you cancel less than 24 hours before the tour start time, the amount you paid will not be refunded.Any changes made less than 24 hours before the tour start time will not be accepted.Cut-off times are based on the tour local time (NZDT).This tour requires a minimum number of travelers. If it’s canceled because the minimum isn’t met, you’ll be offered a different date/experience or a full refund. Read more Apr 2025

Cancellation Policy

You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the tour for a full refund.

Still have questions?

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Activity code: C-15629P2

Traveler Photos

Reviews

4.62
319 reviews

Average 4.62 out of 5 stars based on 319 traveler reviews collected by City Balloon Tours and partner sites such as Cool Destinations and TripAdvisor

5 stars
242
4 stars
51
3 stars
14
2 stars
6
1 star
6
Don't miss out!
On average, this is booked 18 (0) days in advance.

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What's Included

Activity name

  • Small-group transport in air-conditioned minivan/coach
  • Port pickup and drop-off (cruise-friendly timing)
  • Traditional Hangi-inspired snack (meat or vegetable pie)
  • Redwoods Treewalk & Glow Worm grotto admission
  • Professional local guide with live commentary
  • Guided geothermal foot bath experience (towels provided)
  • Admission to commercial geothermal parks (not included)
  • Lunch, drinks, souvenirs, personal expenses
  • Infant/baby seats (must be supplied by traveler if required)

Additional Info

Activity name

  • Confirmation will be received within 48 hours of booking, subject to availability
  • Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
  • Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
  • Family friendly tour
  • Tour departure time may change due to early and/or late ship arrivals and departures
  • Operates in all weather conditions, please dress appropriately. We suggest layers with hats and sunscreen
  • You must provide your own infant/baby seat if required.
  • The Tree Walk involves walking up a ramp to approx 20 metres above ground and then walking along up 28 swing rope bridges between the trees. It is safe and secure but good mobility is needed as there are steps in some areas.
  • This tour/activity will have a maximum of 20 travelers

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